TopMember

I am not going to name the model, so don't ask, but I had a mature larger model contact me about work from here, and I very politely declined. This is the response I got by e-mail

"Mite be a shock for you to shoot a real woman with a real body and more than a few little grey cells."

Ouch!!

She doesnt sound too happy, when you say you "very politely declined" what did you say?

TopMember

This is what I put - cut and pasted for accuracy - she asked exactly what I was looking for:

"I'm afraid that modelling for me is generally a size 6-10/12 up to age about 30 - 35 scenario, but that is just my choice, and please don't take any offence. I have turned down a lot of younger ladies! It's just that after 25 years in the business, I seem to migrate towards certain looks and styles, that's all."

Im sure its her loss---------

If i am put in such a situation i normally say something like i am busy at this time but can i get back to you at a later date .

TopMember

As a mature model i'm never offended by the tog telling me i'm not within the age bracket etc that they are looking for. Each to their own as the saying goes. However the way you put it across is important so not to put the model off from approaching other togs.

I will however add , you dont know what your missing x

TopMember

I tried to be polite, really I did, and if the right model FOR WHAT I WANT TO SHOOT is there, then age is not an issue. But as I am paying the model, I still think it is my prerogative to choose who I want.

Premium

I totally agree with Pp, it is entirely your decision (whether TF* or Paid) to shoot only those that fit your requirements and the image you envisage.
However i also think, how you respond to a request is equally important...
I would have said something along the lines.. Thank you very much for your interest in my work and desire to work with me, unfortunately at this time i am very busy, but will happily consider you for future work.

Leave your doors open and bridges in tact.

I also whole heartedly agree with Silkythighslou..... with many a mature model..."you dont know what your missing".

Some togs who have their own paying sites need us mature models----we are in our own category and have those viewers who only want to see us mature ladies----so ww win some and loose some....

Hi All,
As always,it's horses for courses, and no I'm not suggesting any of the ladies are Grand National winners before you all lynch me lol.Generally, he who pays the piper calls the tune.I should point out however that my good lady at the age of 42 has 4 shoots booked in the next week,so let's hear it for the "Darby and Joan Club".

Premium

At the risk of offending younger readers, I rarely shoot with models under 30 and frequently with one who is in her late 50s. For my money older models are much more interesting to photograph. And - just between ourselves - often much more sensible to deal with (that was the offensive bit). But it's a matter of choice. It's a tough old world for models and, whilst I don't think you have to put up with crap, you do have to be able to take a turn-down without getting arsey (if that's how you spell it)with the photographer.

John (at Tina Spice)

I do a lot of photo shoots on a confidential basis for what may be considered 'mature' ladies. In one instance my customer was in her 70's and clearly looked after herself. What I find with 'mature' customers is that they have a confidence based on life experience and can certainly give lessons to many younger models when it comes to leaving inhibitions outside the studio door!

Wow!! What a response from the model! Regardless of age or size - photographers often have a requirements list - be it a particular bra size, shoe size, number of tattoos, colour of hair... if you're in the modelling industry, you have to accept you won't suit every project or client requirement. This goes for any age, size, hair colour, eye colour... It's just part and parcel!

Agree with the above!